Just because they are whitetails doesn't mean we all have to agree using the plain jane bullets is best either. I mean really what ever floats your canoe and works then go for it. Everybody is different and have their own evaluation process on determining which equipment or this case bullet to use. However when a question or concern is asked of this wide group of individuals you should expect and accept the fact people will give opinions that say switch to a bullet that is constructed for the purpose or outcome asked! So yes premium bullets will always be suggested and many don't consider a few extra dollars in bullets to be a large expense when considering the time, effort and money we may put forth each year to hunt game.

As to the results I agree where is the problem? 2 dead deer, dropped in their tracks and bullet went where you intented it to go! I mean what would have been the difference with 2 holes vs 1 in these cases?? I would expect it in the given circumstances to yield no better results. Like mentioned if you want a more a solid constructed bullet design to retain weight look to the likes of a barnes, failsafe, partition, etc.